HC Deb 06 May 2004 vol 420 cc1723-4W
Mr. Howard

To ask the Prime Minister pursuant to his statement of 19 April 2004,Official Report, columns 21–3, on Iraq and the Middle East Peace Process, (1) whether he raised in Washington the role of the British representative in Baghdad; [171165]

(2) whether he asked President Bush to designate the British representative as Ambassador Bremer's deputy. [171168]

The Prime Minister

I refer the right hon. and learned Gentleman to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for South Staffordshire (Sir Patrick Cormack) during my statement on 19 April 2004, Official Report, column 33.

Mr. Howard

To ask the Prime Minister pursuant to his statement of 19 April 2004, Official Report, columns 21–3, on Iraq and the Middle East Peace Process, what proposals were agreed with President Bush to improve the training and effectiveness of Iraqi security forces. [171166]

The Prime Minister

As I have made clear, discussions are still continuing on this.

Mr. Howard

To ask the Prime Minister pursuant to his statement of 19 April 2004, Official Report, columns 21–3, on Iraq and the Middle East Peace Process, (1) what arrangements are being made to replace the Spanish contingent; [171167]

(2) whether British commanders in Iraq have asked for reinforcements; and whether any such request has been made by the US Administration. [171169]

The Prime Minister

I refer the right hon. and learned Gentleman to the answer I gave him at Prime Minister's questions on 5 May 2004,Official Report, columns 1331–32.